May 12, 2011

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Minnesota State Sen. Dave Thompson will weigh a challenge to first-term Democrat Amy Klobuchar following the conclusion of the legislative session, he tells POLITICO.

“I have not ruled it out, and I have really not given it a lot of thought. Once we get the session taken care of, I can think of other things," he said in an interview.

Thompson, a former radio show host who now serves as assistant Majority Leader, has been approached by Republicans about considering the race and said he believes Klobuchar needs to be vigorously challenged on her record.

"She seems to be a very nice person and longtime public servant, but she's supported an agenda that's put the United States of America in a deep hole," he said.

With the Minnesota general assembly scheduled to adjourn on May 23, Thompson said he will take a few weeks to mull over the commitment to a full-fledged campaign and then issue a statement next month.

"A few weeks of mulling this over and talking this over and seeing what kind of support appears to be out there. It would be my goal to have that decision by end of June," he said. "I couldn't tell you if I'm feeling pro or con right now. Not leaning either way."

Minnesota is going to be tough to win for the GOP, especially in a presidential election wher it is unlikely that the GOP nominee will compete. The best candidate would be Tim Pawlenty, but that doesn't seem likely. Any other lawmaker or former lawmaker is just too weak to beat a fairly popular Klobuchar. The best person would be a female business woman, a Ron Johnson like candidate with great speaking skills that doesn't really offend due to having a solid temperment.